The Secret Identities of TMPRSS2: Fertility Factor, Virus Trafficker, Inflammation Moderator, Prostate Protector and Tumor Suppressor

The TMPRSS2 gene played a dual role in both viral infections and prostate cancer. It facilitated SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells by priming spike proteins, which helped the virus evade immune responses. In prostate cancer, TMPRSS2 was involved in the formation of TMPRSS2:ERG fusion genes, which were linked to inflammation and cancer progression. These fusions were more common in the presence of inflammatory oxidative DNA damage, but less frequent in patients using anti-inflammatory drugs. The study suggested that TMPRSS2 protected the prostate by preventing inflammation-induced DNA damage, which could lead to cancer. However, inhibiting TMPRSS2 might not be advisable for treating early prostate cancer due to its protective role against inflammation.